New Coffee and Wine Bar Opening Soon in Del Ray

Emma’s Espresso and Wine Bar looks to be opening soon in Del Ray, according to a recent ad placed on craigslist, looking to hire a barista.

“We’re a warm and welcoming blend of traditional and contemporary charm, serving world-class espresso, tea and café cuisine by day, and wine, beer and small plates most evenings,” the ad notes.

The long-anticipated new coffee, wine bar and eatery is located at 106 Hume Ave. The City Council approved the plans for the establishment about two years ago. That permit was extended in the summer.

The menu plans call for soups, salads, sandwiches, and cold plates. Beer and wine will also be offered, after 4 p.m. The restaurant is expected to have up to 40 indoor and 18 outdoor seats, for a total of 58.

The employment ad placed recently notes that the new business’s goal is to “make everyone feel like a regular, from the very first day we open our doors. We’re creating a culture of connection, inclusion and fun, from the ground up -- and for that we need to hire just the right staff.”

No word on the opening date yet from owner Connie Desrosiers; the ad notes that “hands-on espresso training” begins the week of Jan. 19.

The establishment gets its name from the 1925 Emma P. Hume subdivision where the property resides.

Local architect Bob Larson, who designed Del Ray Cafe, was hired to develop a working concept plan for Emma’s that Desrosiers has said will have some “whimsy, with a nod to Victorian.” The plan includes an addition of almost 1,000 square feet.

The hours of operation are expected to be:

• Sunday: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Monday: 6 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Tuesday-Thursday: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Friday: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Saturday: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Other coffee shops in the Del Ray area include St. Elmo’s Coffee Pub at 2300 Mt. Vernon Ave., Swing’s at 501 E. Monroe Ave., and Mancini’s Cafe & Bakery, 1508 Mt. Vernon Ave. and Grape + Bean Rosemont just down the road.